Anyone traveling internationally will need a passport to enter the UK. For those that do not have a passport currently can apply for one with the US Department of State. Passport applications take typically several months to process, so it is strongly advised to apply as soon as possible.

Also, those who are passport holders currently should double check the passport expiration date. Most airlines require that the passport expiration date is not within 6 months of the travel dates. If your passport expires within 6 months of your travel dates, you will want to renew your passport ahead of time.

United States passport holders are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for entering the United Kingdom.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization is not a visa, but a special entry authorization for nationals from specific visa-exempt countries (e.g. United States of America). Unlike the standard visitor visa, which is required for a wide range of nationalities and typically involves a detailed application process, including offline steps, the ETA offers an efficient, entirely online application method.

The easiest way to secure an ETA is to apply on the UK ETA app or online through the online application.

The cost for an ETA is approximately $20 per applicant and is valid for 2 years.

To travel by air to the UK, U.S. citizens will need a valid passport and an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or visa, depending on the purpose and length of stay. Travelers should check specific requirements based on their individual circumstances.

Skyscanner.com is a great resource for finding the best deals on flights. We like to use Skyscanner as a search tool to find the flight that works best for us, and we've has lots of practice during our cross-atlantic courtship. We usually look for the best flights on Skyscanner, and then go directly to the airline to find the same flight and purchase through the airline directly. This is a great tip for those looking to use Skymiles or points, or those who want to earn points for their flights. Generally points are not accepted or earned on flights purchased through a third party provider (Kayak, Expedia.com, Skyscanner, etc.) Download the Skyscanner app here. Typically the best time to book airfare is approximately 3-6 months before your trip to secure the best prices.

You will need:

Passports

Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your trip and meets any specific requirements for the UK.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

U.S. citizens traveling to the UK for short visits, tourism, or business will likely need an ETA, unless they have a UK visa or legal residency.

Visas

If you plan to stay longer than allowed with an ETA or if your purpose of travel doesn't qualify for an ETA, you will need to apply for a visa.

Airlines

Several airlines operate flights between the US and the UK, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and Virgin Atlantic.

Direct Flights

Many major US airports offer direct flights to London, such as: Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, Seattle, and Washington Dulles.

Other Considerations

Be aware of any customs regulations for goods you are bringing into the UK.

The most convenient airport would most likely be London Heathrow when traveling from the US; however, please note that further travel from London to Totnes would be required by either train or car.

Bristol and Exeter Airports are valuable options when traveling by air from other European destinations. Bristol airport is approximately 93 mi from Totnes, and Exeter airport is approximately 30 mi from Totnes.

When flying into London Heathrow, the Heathrow Express is available directly from the airport and runs every 15 mins directly to Paddington Station in central London. To travel from London Paddington station to Totnes, you'll need to take a Great Western Railway (GWR) train. These trains depart from London Paddington and travel directly to Totnes, with an average journey time of around 2 hours 43 minutes and an average price of $80-$100 per ticket. The trains run approximately hourly. Tickets can be purchased online at Trainline.com or when you arrive at Paddington Station. The Trainline app and Heathrow Express app are a convenient tools to view train times and schedules.

*Pro tip: Discounted train tickets for the Heathrow Express are available when purchased 45+ days in advance.

Additional advice, if purchasing train tickets in advance, give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the station to board the train at Paddington. Trains in England are extremely reliable and leave precisely on time. Flex tickets are available at higher rates for greater flexibility to travel on a specific day without selecting a specific time.

Exeter St David's to Totnes by train

It takes an average of 38 mins to travel from Exeter St David's to Totnes by train, over a distance of around 21 miles (34 km). There are normally 69 trains per day travelling from Exeter St David's to Totnes and tickets for this journey start from $15 when booked in advance.

Bristol Temple Meads to Totnes by train

It takes an average of 1h 55m to travel from Bristol Temple Meads to Totnes by train, over a distance of around 85 miles (137 km). There are normally 26 trains per day travelling from Bristol Temple Meads to Totnes and tickets for this journey start from $17 when you book in advance.

The fastest way to get from Totnes (Station) to Kingston Estate, Staverton is to taxi which takes 10 min and costs £12 - £15.

Tips for Americans Driving in the UK